The family of a 21-year-old Aberdeen student killed in a tragic road accident have today paid tribute to their “thoughtful” and “caring” daughter.
Leanne McDonald was fatally injured after her car careered into a wall at around 9.40pm on the A937 in Angus.
The former Montrose Academy pupil was studying at Robert Gordon University’s (RGU) School of Nursing and Midwifery in Aberdeen.
Speaking to the The Courier at the family home in Montrose today, mum Audrey led tributes to her “thoughtful” and “caring” daughter.
She said: “She was a very popular girl, she had loads of friends and she would have made a brilliant nurse as she was such a caring person.”
Audrey added: “She was a member of The Gordon School of Dancing from the age of two and actually danced on the Great Wall of China when she was 15.
“As much as Leanne was a girly girl with her hair and her make-up, she also loved camping and she wasn’t afraid to get muddy. I use to say to her you are a boy as well as a girl.”
The Robert Gordon University student, who would have graduated as a paediatric nurse in September, had already secured a conditional job for the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.
Professor Ian Murray, head of RGU’s School of Nursing and Midwifery, said: “Leanne was about to qualify as a children’s nurse and had a promising career ahead of her.”
Montrose Football Club, where Leanne had assisted, also paid tribute to the young nurse.
In a post on the club’s Facebook page, they wrote: “It is with great sorrow the club reports the tragic death of Leanne McDonald following a car accident near Craigo.
“Leanne assisted on many occasions within hospitality at the club and will be sadly missed.
“Montrose Football Club extends its deepest sympathy and condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.”
Friend Codie Petrie was another to pay his respects to Leanne on social media.
He wrote: “Heartbroken to say the least. Will never come across a more genuine, caring and loving young girl. Thoughts are with Leanne’s family and friends through this tragic time. you’ll be missed girl.”
Leanne’s father thanked the number of well-wishers who had got in contact, particularly one of her mentors at her last placement up in Aberdeen, who said she would be a huge loss to the university.
